Is jiu jitsu bad for you?
In the realm of self-improvement and physical fitness, few disciplines embody the ethos of resilience and discipline quite like jiu jitsu.
Yet, as with any pursuit, the question inevitably arises: "Is Jiu Jitsu bad for you?"
To truly understand the answer, we must delve into the nuanced interplay between risks and rewards inherent in this martial art.
Let us first acknowledge that, like any physical activity, jiu jitsu carries a few inherent risks.
From potential injuries to the strain it may place on the body, mind, and other areas of your life, there are indeed aspects of jiu jitsu that could be considered "bad" for one's health.
However, adopting a Stoic perspective allows us to approach these risks with clarity and pragmatism.
Injury Mitigation
One of the primary concerns surrounding jiu jitsu is the risk of injury.
From sprains and strains to more severe ailments such as joint dislocations or concussions, the physical nature of the sport leaves practitioners vulnerable to harm.
However, by practicing in a safe and controlled environment under the guidance of knowledgeable instructors, many of these risks can be mitigated.
Don’t have that guidance at the place you train?
Here are a few simple things you must do to minimize the risk for injury:
Emphasizing proper technique
(A movement done the wrong way is a recipe for instant pain)
Be smart about partner selection
(95% of injuries happen because you or your partner don’t know what the hell you are doing, go with someone who does if you don’t)
Gradual progression
(Don’t expect to get better showing up once every 4 weeks and expect your body not to get ruined as you go balls to the wall for 45 minutes straight)
Listening to your body
(Rest days? Never heard of them… If this is you, STOP and listen to your body. There’s a delicate balance between pushing your body to improve physically and pushing your body to break)
Mental Health
Jiu jitsu, like any sport, can take a toll on one's mental well-being if approached without mindfulness.
The relentless pursuit of perfection, coupled with the pressure to perform, can lead to burnout, anxiety, or even feelings of inadequacy.
To counteract these potential pitfalls, it is crucial to cultivate a balanced mindset.
Embrace the process of learning and growth, focusing on incremental progress rather than fixating on immediate results.
Additionally, incorporating mindfulness practices such as journaling can help maintain mental clarity and resilience.
Sometimes we need to step back to see the bigger picture.
JIU JITSU IS LIFE.. but jiu jitsu isn’t the ONLY part of LIFE.
Time Commitment
Another consideration is the impact of jiu jitsu on one's personal relationships and lifestyle.
The demanding nature of training schedules and competitions can strain familial bonds or lead to neglect of other aspects of life. Yet, by establishing clear boundaries, communicating openly with loved ones, and prioritizing self-care, it is possible to strike a harmonious balance between one's passion for jiu jitsu and other obligations.
Don’t be that person that gets a divorce because you can’t take a day off to spend with your significant other and kids.
While jiu jitsu may pose certain risks to physical and mental well-being, adopting a strategic mindset and practicing in safe, smart ways can help mitigate these dangers.
By embracing discipline, resilience, and mindfulness, practitioners will reap the transformative power of jiu jitsu while safeguarding their health and overall quality of life.
As with any pursuit worth undertaking, the key lies in finding balance and approaching the journey with intention and purpose.
Less viewing, more doing.
Tim
